Captured by the Taliban

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Journalist and author Jere Van Dyk, grew up in Vancouver, Washington, and ran track at the University of Oregon. He graduated with a degree in political science — then wound up in a Volkswagon with his brother, driving from Europe to Asia with a plan to sell the VW to fund their trip home. But hey ran out of money in Afghanistan. That began Van Dyk’s long and deep relationship with Central Asia, including an extensive reporting career.

In 2008 he set out to write a book that took him to the remote tribal lands between Afghanistan and Pakistan. He was captured by the Taliban and spent a month and a half in captivity. Among the thing that helped him survive and come out alive are the calisthenics track taught him, and his childhood attending a conservative church in Portland.

Van Dyk’s 2010 book, Captive, tells the story of his time with the Taliban. Van Dyk is back in Oregon this week to speak at his alma mater. He’ll join us Monday to discuss his life, his time with the Taliban, and his next projects.